Arytenoid dislocation related to an uneventful endotracheal intubation: a case report

INTRODUCTION: Invasive methods currently applied to the respiratory tract may result in impaired movement of the cricoarytenoid joint with hoarseness and immobility of the vocal ligament. Hoarseness after tracheal intubation is reported as a high incidence in patients who receive general anaesthesia. In most cases, the symptoms are temporary and improve within several days. We report this case for emphasizing that early diagnosis of arytenoid cartilage dislocation is important even in nontraumatic cases. CASE PRESENTATION: We present the case of a 19-year-old Caucasian male who developed arytenoid cartilage dislocation associated with uneventful endotracheal intubation and anesthesia. CONCLUSION: Arytenoid subluxation should be considered whenever any of the symptoms mentioned occur following endolaryngeal manipulation, and they become persistent, as recovery becomes difficult if appropriate treatment is not started immediately.